FAQ’s & Race Guides
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FAQ’S/GUIDES
General QuestionsSecurity FAQ’sAthlete Guide (available 1 week before race)Spectator Guide(available 2 weeks before race)Whether you’re new to the sport of triathlon or new to The Tri-State Triathlon, we want to make your experience the best it can be. That’s why we’ve assembled a list of frequently asked questions ranging from general information to the nitty-gritty details about race day.Answers to questions regarding the course, equipment, rules, registration and what to expect can be found in the menu below or to the left. For information about making changes to your entry, see below. If you are still not able to find an answer to your question, please contact us. |
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Q: Is the Delaware safe? Registration Changes Q: If I am unable to participate in the race, may I get a refund? Q: If I am unable to participate in the race, may I give my entry to a friend? Q: What is the procedure for making a change to an entry? Q: What is the minimum age to participate in The Tri-State Triathlon ? Q: I lost something, do you have a lost & found? A: Yes, please contact us and leave us a brief description of what item was lost |
General QuestionsQ: What is the Sprint distance triathlon? Q: What is the Sprint distance triathlon? Q: What is the International distance triathlon? This event will not be held in 2015 A: The International distance competition distances are 1.5-kilometer (.93-mile) swim, 40-kilometer (24.8-mile) bike and 10-kilometer (6.2-mile) run. This course is an exact measure and is USAT sanctioned.
Q: How many racers will be competing in the Sprint distance? A: Approximately 300 competitors will register for the event. We will post information on the TST website as well as on the information hotline when registration for an event has closed. Q: If someone hands me my glasses at the end of the swim, does that violate the “No Help” rule? A: No, but they will not be allowed in the swim exit chute and will have to stand behind the fence lining the start or the run to transition. Q: Do I have to get body marked? A: Yes, body marking is not an option at the Tri-State Triathlon. Body marking will be available on race day so get there on time. You may not body mark yourself. Q: If I didn’t make it into the race, can I still participate by using the course? A: No, anyone who is not officially entered in the event will be removed from the course. If you participate in the race without being registered and you cause an accident, you may be liable and subject to prosecution. Q: How can I contact the Tri-State Triathlon? Mail: The Tri-State Triathlon |
Questions About the SwimQ: What is the water temperature? Q: What is the water temperature? Q: Do I need a wetsuit? A: No, a wetsuit is not required. However, water temperatures have historically been between 72 and 76 degrees Fahrenheit on race day, making it a wetsuit-legal race. A wetsuit will provide you with warmth and buoyancy, and will make the swim easier. Wetsuits can be rented from one of our various multisport sponsors. Q: Is there an aid station at the swim start? A: Yes. There is water and HEED available to athletes at the swim start. Q: Will there be a swim warm-up? A: No. Swimmers will be allowed to wade in the water for approx 30 seconds giving swimmers a chance to become acclimated to the water. Q: Is there a gear check at the swim start? A: Yes. There will be gear check for all athletes at swim start. Personal belongings will be transported back to transition and be ready for pick up after the race. Gear bags with athlete number on them will be included in every racers SWAG bag. Q: Can I use any stroke in the swim portion? A: You may use any stroke that allows you to see the buoys and stay on course. Q: How deep is the water for the swim? A: The Delaware River is typically deep enough where the swimmers will not be able to touch at any point during the swim portion of the event. Athletes will tread water or wade prior to the start of the race. If conditions permit we will allow a beach start during swim start. Q: Will I be disqualified if I hang onto the lane lines or buoys? A: You may stop and rest during the swim, but you must not interfere with the progress of other swimmers. You may hang onto the guard boats or buoys. |
Questions About the BikeQ: Are there aid stations on the bike course? Q: Are there aid stations on the bike course? Q: Will there be bike technicians available for assistance on race day? A: Yes. Bike techs will be located at the north end of the transition area and also at the finish festival. Q: If I break down on the bike course will there be any assistance offered? A: Yes. A SAG vehicle (usually a large passenger van or truck marked with a logo) will be circling the course throughout the race that will pick you up and return you to the transition area. If you break down, please move off the course to the side of the road and inform a course marshal or policeman. They will assist you in locating the SAG vehicle. Q: Can I use a mountain bike in the sprint event? A: Yes, you may use a mountain bike in the sprint event. Q: Can I use a tandem or recumbent bike in the race? A: No. Q: Do I have to get my bike inspected? A: No, but it is highly recommended. Many people experience technical problems on race day that could have been easily avoided if the bike had been inspected prior to the race. In order to avoid disappointment on race day, we urge all competitors to have their bikes inspected no more than three weeks prior to the event. Please contact your local bike shop for additional information. Free bike inspections are available at bike shops throughout New York. Find a list of the participating dealers here [link to Equipment page]. |
Questions About the CourseQ: What will the course be like? Q: What will the course be like? Q: Will the race begin on land or in the water? A: The Tri-State Triathlon will begin with an in-water start at The Delaware River, with participants wading in the water for 30 seconds to 1 minute prior to the starting gun. If conditions permit we will allow a beach start. Q: What is the swim course like? A: The swim portion of this event is fast! Course descriptions and maps are available for each part of the event online here. Q: Where are the restroom facilities? A: There are portable toilets in three areas: near the transition area, in between the swim start and swim finish at the finish fest, and at the finish line. Q: Where is the medical tent located? A: The medical tent is located just past the finish line. Q: Are there medical personnel located on the course? A: Yes. There will be medical personnel and emergency transportation vehicles located along the entire racecourse. Q: What time is the awards ceremony? A: The awards schedule will be posted on the website before 1 week before the race. The awards ceremony will take place near the stage on race day. Q: Where is the awards ceremony? A: The awards ceremony will take place in the Post-race Party area at Waterfront Finish Festival, in front of the stage. |
Questions About EquipmentQ: Are there specifications for the bike helmets and wetsuits? Q: Are there specifications for the bike helmets and wetsuits? The wetsuit must not be over 5mm at its thickest point. Anyone using a wetsuit should have used their wetsuit in their training. Wetsuits are allowed if the water temperature is 83 degrees Fahrenheit or cooler. If you are racing for an age group award, the wetsuit cut-off is 78 degrees. Q: Which additional equipment will be permitted in the swim? A: Aqua socks, socks, snorkels and swim masks or goggles will be allowed in the swim leg of the event. Use of fins, gloves and flotation devices is prohibited. Q: May I rent a bike or a wetsuit? A: We do not facilitate nor does the event have a source for bike rental. While a wetsuit is not required, water temperatures have historically been between 72 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit on race day, making it a wetsuit-legal race. A wetsuit will provide you with warmth and buoyancy, and will make the swim easier. Wetsuits can be rented from any of our official race sponsors. Q: How does chip timing work? A: The Tri-State Triathlon utilizes ChampionChip timing systems. The assigned ChampionChip is encoded with the athlete’s name, race number and wave start, and is attached to a strap that the athlete must wear securely around their ankle. Relay racers will have a similar chip system. A scanner located in the orange mats positioned at each transition (swim finish, bike start, bike finish, run start and run finish) reads the chip and records the time as each athlete steps on the mat. Athletes must be careful to step directly on the mats at each transition. In addition, an athlete who starts in any wave after the first swim wave begins, must take care not to step on a mat in or around the transition area accidentally as he/she waits for their wave to begin. Q: When is my timing chip activated? A: The chips are automatically activated before the start of the race on Sunday. Q: Where will my times be recorded? A: A scanner located in the orange mats positioned at each transition (swim finish, bike start, bike finish, run start and run finish) reads the chip and records the time as each athlete steps on the mat. The timing chips will record every instance an athlete steps on a mat. If such a time is recorded that is earlier than an athlete’s scheduled wave start, the computer will automatically disqualify him/her. Furthermore, if an athlete starts in a wave earlier than their scheduled wave — either accidentally or intentionally — the chip will automatically disqualify them. Q: Can I wear the chip wherever I want as long as I have it with me? A: No. The strap with the timing chip must be worn around the ankle. Q: If I lose my chip, will I be timed for the race? Can I get another chip? A: No. If you lose your chip before the race starts, see race personnel at the volunteer check-in tent located at Transition to rent a replacement chip. Each timing chip is very valuable. A replacement fee of $35 will be the athlete’s responsibility. |
Questions About the Transition AreaQ: When will I be able to access the transition area? Q: When will I be able to access the transition area? Q: Why do I have to be in the transition area so early if my wave doesn’t start until later in the morning? A: In order to ensure the security and safety of our competitors and their equipment, all equipment must be dropped in transition by 6:45 a.m., 15 minutes prior to the start of the first wave. There will be absolutely no exceptions to this rule. Q: Can I use decorations (balloons, etc.) to indicate where my things are in the transition area? A: Yes, but they should not interfere with other participants being able to easily and safely access their equipment. We reserve the right to remove any materials that will interfere with the safety and security of our competitors and their equipment. Q: What time will the transition area reopen? A: The exact time is to be determined by the race director and is dependent on when the last competitor completes the bike course and has set out on the run (approximately 11 a.m.). All equipment must be picked up by 12:30 p.m. We will not be responsible for any equipment not claimed after that time. |
Questions About Start WavesQ: How is my wave assigned? Q: How is my wave assigned? Q: Can I switch my wave? Q: How many people will be in my wave? Q: How many minutes are between waves? A: Swim waves are 3 minutes between waves. Q: When will the wave assignments be finalized? A: Waves will be finalized the week before the race. Please take it easy on Jeff, swim wave organization is not easy! The wave start schedule will be available on line and in the Tri-State Triathlon Athletes Guide, and also sent out via email in your “Athlete Info Pack” at the beginning of race week. You can also access this online at tri-statetriathlon.com and click on athletes guide. Q: What time does my wave start? A: Wave start times will be posted on the Tri-State Triathlon website and also sent out via email in your “Athlete Info Pack” at the beginning of race week. Athletes can also access this info online at tri-statetriathlon.com and click on athletes guide. |
Questions About USA Triathlon (USAT)Q: Are USAT permits mandatory for anyone participating in Life Time Tri Chicago? Q: Are USAT permits mandatory for anyone participating in Tri-State Tri? Q: Where can I get a USAT single-event permit? A: Single-event coverage for the Tri-State Triathlon must be purchased when completing the registration process for the event. If the participant in not already a USAT member, he/she must purchase single-event coverage from USAT for $15 to compete in the Tri-State Tri. Q: Where can I get a USAT yearly permit? A: An annual membership for all USAT sanctioned events is available at http://www.usatriathlon.org. Visit their website for complete event information. Q: If I am a USAT member, do I have to bring my USAT membership card to race packet pickup? A: Yes. If you do not bring your card with you, you will be required to purchase a single-event permit. No exceptions. |
REGISTRATION FAQ’SREGISTRATION FAQ’S Are you a first-time Tri-State Triathlete? Maybe this is your first race ever! We’ve got you covered. Take a look below, and we bet we’ve got answers for all of your questions. How far is the Tri-State Triathlon? Sprint Distance Race – 600 meter swim in the Delaware, 16K bike up Hawk’s Nest and back (10 miles), and a 5k run (3.1 miles) through historic Port Jervis, finishing at the beautiful West End Beach. How difficult is the Swim? Although times vary with wave number, skill level, and mild current speed, the swim in the Delaware River is one of cleanest and most beautiful in the sport of triathlon. Can anyone enter? When does 2015 online registration open? How much is the 2015 entry fee? When does 2015 registration close? How do I register? How do I know if I’m in? Do I have to pre-qualify? Can I enter if I’ve never done a triathlon? What if I enter and I can’t compete? Unfortunately there are no refunds once you complete your registration. However, you can defer to the following year and receive a guaranteed entry! just email us before race day and we will take care of it. Do I have to be a member of USA Triathlon? Do I have to live in New York? Evidently I ask questions more frequently than the next guy. I still have some!
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If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us. |
FAQ’SMore Questions? We’ve got More Answers“What is an Athlete Briefing and Why are they so important?”The Tri-State Triathlon will offer 1 Mandatory Athlete Briefing on Race Day. This briefing will provide athletes with information about the race course, race rules, last minute information about the race, weather or road and water conditions. All athletes are required to attend the race day briefing. Please see the Athletes Guide for course briefing times. “What does it mean that the tri-state Triathlon is “USAT Sanctioned” and why do I have to pay $15 to become a one-day member?”USAT, or USA Triathlon, is the national governing body of the sport of Triathlon. Sanctioning an event through USAT means the race is provided insurance for its athletes, race coordinators, and volunteers. As a sanctioned triathlon, all athletes are required to either be an annual USAT member or purchase a one-day membership pass. If you are currently a USAT member please make sure to bring your proof of membership when you pick up your packet. If you do not bring this proof, you will be charged for the one-day membership fee. If you are not an annual member, you will need to purchase a one-day membership (to insure you as a Triathlete) before you are able to pick up your packet. One-day membership costs $15, and will be collected when you pick up your registration, if you have not already paid it online.
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Additional questions below RACE FAQS Q: What if I enter and I can’t compete? A: Unfortunately, there are no refunds and no exchanges. You can’t transfer or sell your entry. However, you can defer your registration and receive an early entry opportunity for 2015. Contact us for deferral details. Your 2015 entry fee will not be transferred to 2016. Q: What is the expected water temperature in the Delaware River? A: Approximately 76 degrees Fahrenheit Q: Are wetsuits allowed? Q: Is there a warm up swim or ride on Sunday morning? A: Neither one will be allowed. Bikes may not be removed from transition once you have checked your bike in. Athletes will not be allowed to enter the Delaware River until the start of their wave. Q: Do I have to go to the briefings before I check my bike into transition? Q: Can my secretary/friend/teammate/doorman/nanny pick up my race packet on race morning? Q: Can members of a relay team pick up all of their team members packets? Can I pick up my friend’s packet? Q: What if I cannot attend the briefings? Q: How many water stations are on the run course? A: Two, plus one at the finish. Q: Do I have to wear the wristband given to me at packet pick-up? Q: Do I have to wear the swim cap? Q: What is the best place for spectators to watch the race? A: Swim Exit: top of the park entrance Run Course: Along Water Street Q: What cool stuff do I get for entering and finishing? Q: I’m a Yankees fan. What do I get? SECURITY FAQ’S
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